Last updated on August 15th, 2024 at 09:49 pm
Chicago, Illinois—renowned for its iconic architecture and dynamic urban landscape—is a hub of creativity and innovation. From the towering skyscrapers that define its skyline to the historic neighborhoods that exude charm, Chicago is a tapestry of design and culture. Against this vibrant backdrop, the art of interior architecture thrives.
For those seeking to transform spaces into living works of art, the list below showcases the foremost interior architects working in Chicago. We chose these firms after we examined their portfolios, areas of expertise, industry recognitions, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of design. From residential havens that capture personal aesthetics to commercial spaces that redefine functionality, these interior architects possess the skills to weave a narrative through design elements. Whether merging form with function or crafting an ambiance that resonates, these professionals exemplify Chicago’s design ethos at its finest.
Pappageorge Haymes Partners
640 North LaSalle Street, Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60654
Since 1981, Pappageorge Haymes Partners (PH) has shaped the urban landscape, redefining city living. The firm’s approach is both civic and practical, resulting in an impressive portfolio that includes homes, high-rises, mixed-use developments, neighborhood plans, and adaptive reuse projects across the United States. PH is celebrated for collaborative, client-centered design, establishing it as a prominent industry leader. The firm’s structure ensures efficient staffing and knowledge transfer, empowering clients to realize their vision.
Notable achievements of the firm include the 2022 AIA Chicago Design Excellence Honor Award for The Place at Fifth + Broadway. Affiliated with AIA Chicago and US Green Building Council, PH’s commitment to sustainable design shines through LEED-certified projects. The firm’s influence reaches far, as you’ll see in features in Architectural Record Magazine and Building Design+Construction.
Principal architects George Pappageorge, NCARB, FAIA, and David A. Haymes lead the charge. Their transformative work, like the Museum Park at Central Station and The Pomeroy Apartments, has garnered national acclaim. University Commons stands as a testament to the firm’s innovative renovation and community-focused design.
SPACE Architects + Planners
2149 N. Talman Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647
Founded in 2003, SPACE Architects + Planners is a collaborative community of design experts sharing a unified vision for architecture and planning. The firm’s reputation for design finesse and meticulousness has been cultivated through unwavering commitment. The firm feels that humble teamwork is the foundation of successful architecture. This team of adept problem-solvers crafts innovative design solutions, organically yielding enriched value for its clients.
With operations spanning from the Midwest from Chicago and extending through the Southwest to Scottsdale, its enthusiastic teams serve diverse clients, infusing projects with expertise and zeal. SPACE’s noteworthy achievements include receiving the 2021 National Association for Industrial and Office Parks Chicago Office Redevelopment of the Year Award for 1133-55 Fulton. Spaces Magazine and Ella Elli have likewise spotlighted the company’s work.
Combining practical design with energy efficiency, Jay Keller holds a Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. Jean Dufresne marries North American architectural sensibilities from Quebec to Chicago with his business acumen. Integral since 2005, Ramiel Kenoun’s leadership and project management expertise continue to drive the firm’s success. He is a graduate of the University of Illinois at Chicago.
Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture
315 W Walton Street, Chicago, IL 60610
Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture is an accomplished, nationally-practicing design firm based in Chicago’s Near North district. With expertise in architecture, interiors, and planning, HPA has a proven track record in diverse sectors, including new construction, historic preservation, sustainable design, mixed-use projects, and renovations. The firm’s design philosophy reshapes how people inhabit and engage with spaces.
The firm’s many noteworthy accolades include the 2022 CRSI Honors Award in the “Residential & Hotel” category for One Chicago. HPA also maintains affiliations with respected organizations like AIA Chicago and champions LEED-certified projects. Its impact can be seen in esteemed publications like Urbanize Chicago and Portland Tribune.
Ray Hartshorne, co-founder of HPA, brings over 35 years of experience with commercial, residential, interiors, and planning projects. His portfolio boasts celebrated ventures such as Google Chicago’s headquarters at 1KFulton, the LEED Platinum-rated Green Exchange, and the iconic Randolph Tower City Apartments, a 43-story terra cotta-clad landmark.
Cordogan, Clark & Associates
716 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL 60654
Cordogan, Clark & Associates has built over 5,000 projects, crafting successful learning, working, civic, cultural, performing arts, sports, recreation, healthcare, and residential spaces. Its trajectory involves holistic solutions for diverse markets, built upon integrated expertise and design thoughtfulness. Cordogan Clark provides an array of service categories: architecture, mechanical-electrical-plumbing engineering, structural engineering, architectural-based construction management advisory, master planning, security, interiors, graphic design, campaign support, and more.
The company was recognized with the 2023 REjournal Real Estate Award in the Student Housing Category. It is also known for its LEED-certified projects that embody sustainability. The firm has likewise been highlighted in Archinect and Wallpaper Magazine for its design innovation.
Guiding Cordogan, Clark & Associates, John Cordogan leads the firm he inherited from Louis Cordogan, established in 1951. Cordogan’s vision was enriched by a Master’s Degree from the University of Illinois and his overseas studies. Co-founder John Clark directs the Chicago office. In collaboration with partner John Cordogan, he oversees project architecture, design, and construction quality.
dSPACE Studio
2920 N Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60657
dSPACE Studio is an acclaimed architecture firm that thrives on crafting architecture, interiors, and landscapes. Hailing from Chicago, the firm’s endeavors span the USA and beyond. Its versatile portfolio encompasses residential and commercial ventures, spotlighting urban abodes, holiday retreats, and distinctive corporate locales. Embracing new construction and renovations, each project is approached individually and firmly rooted in client aspirations, budgets, locations, and contexts.
The recipient of the 2023 Brick Industry Award for Residential Design with the Lincoln Park Abode, dSPACE Studio is affiliated with the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, AIA Chicago, and AIA Custom Residential Architects Network. Its press accolades include À Vivre and Interior Design Magazine.
At the helm is Kevin Toukoumidis, AIA, LEED AP, the founding principal. With a trailblazing journey through architectural realms in San Francisco, Boston, Cleveland, and Chicago, Toukoumidis oversees projects holistically. He collaborates ardently with clients, nurturing designs with distinct architectural identities and remaining sensitive to the profound interplay between the indoor and outdoor realms. His portfolio includes residential, hospitality, dining, retail, workspace, and landscape projects.
Northworks Architects + Planners
1512 N Throop Street, Chicago, IL 60642
Northworks Architects + Planners, a Chicago-based architecture and planning firm, offers full-service capabilities and does so from additional offices in Philadelphia, PA, Aspen, CO, Jackson, WY, Driggs, ID, Bozeman, MT and San Francisco, CA. Its expertise includes new building design, historic preservation, site planning, construction management, building conditions analysis, interior design, and bespoke furniture.
Northworks’ collaboration reigns supreme. It believes in the power of diverse perspectives, fostering a dynamic exchange that drives the team to realize its clients’ aesthetic, functional, sustainable, and budgetary aspirations. The firm’s affiliations include the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, AIA Chicago, and the AIA Custom Residential Architects Network.
The company’s work resonates in respected publications like Architectural Digest, Eater, and House Beautiful. Principals Austin DePree, AIA, and Bill Bickford, AIA, LEED AP, infuse the firm with passion. DePree’s commitment to purposeful, lasting architecture is evident in nationwide custom residences and luxury developments, while Bickfordl’s penchant for striking concepts guides diverse projects across inspiring landscapes.
Morgante Wilson Architects
2834 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
At Morgante-Wilson Architects, fostering an optimal client-architect relationship is pivotal to its approach. It collaborates closely with clients and team members, forming an active team where trust evolves through attentive listening to clients’ ideas, preferences, and concerns. Its expertise spans commercial and residential architecture, interiors, and a deep respect for landscape design, ensuring a seamless project journey.
The company is proud to be a member of the American Institute of Architects and the Association of Licensed Architects. Featured in Luxe Magazine and NS Modern Luxury, its work demonstrates its dedication to innovative design.
Leading the way is Fred Wilson. Establishing the practice shortly after graduate school, he was later joined by partner Elissa Morgante in 1994. Elissa Morgante, AIA, brings her expertise in architecture, interiors, furniture design, and reverence for landscape design to the practice. Under their watch, the company has garnered national and local recognition with a team of over 20 architects and designers specializing in residential design.
BBA Architects
1010 S Wabash Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605
BBA Architects, based in Chicago, specializes in crafting luxury residences. The firm’s journey began in 1993, and since then, it has brought to life more than 1,500 dream homes across the globe. Noteworthy acknowledgments include securing spots on the 2017 LUXE Gold List and receiving the 2017 Crystal Key Award. The firm also maintains ties with the Illinois Green Alliance, reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices.
Recognized by outlets like Aspire Design and Home, Michigan Avenue Magazine, and Luxe Magazine, BBA Architects has garnered plenty of attention for its exceptional work. The principal architects play pivotal roles within the company. Gary Beyerl, AIA, is an architectural history enthusiast and Syracuse University alumnus. Ed Twohey, AIA—who joined as the inaugural employee—excels in hospitality and restaurant projects alongside technological leadership. Jennifer Hense, AIA, a Ball State University graduate, rose to partnership in 2021, demonstrating expertise across a wide spectrum of projects from modern builds to historic renovations.
